Icon Photographer Terry O’Neill (1938–2019)

Terry O’Neill is one of the world’s most celebrated and collected photographers. His career began at age 22 and he was soon freelancing for some of the world’s most prestigious publications. He helped create the photographic icons of the ’60s and the buzz that became “Swinging London,” and his work hangs in galleries and private collections worldwide.

Terry photographed the front lines of fame for over six decades. He documented the lives of emerging rock stars, capturing the Beatles and the Rolling Stones when they were still struggling young bands in 1963, and pioneered backstage reportage with David Bowie, Elton John, and the Who. His work comprises a vital chronicle of rock ’n’ roll history.

Terry’s images have adorned historic rock albums, movie posters, magazine covers, and are featured at the National Portrait Gallery in London. Terry’s great skill in capturing his subjects candidly or in unconventional settings earned him recognition as one of the great recorders of 20th-century celebrity. Terry passed away quietly at home after a long illness at age 81 in November 2019.